After January — Nick Earls

This January is different. It's as though the future is held here. Held at bay, held at more than arm's length. And the waiting is everywhere. School is over for Alex Delaney and he's waiting for his university offers -- only seventeen days away. The waiting is killing him. He's not expecting much from January. Bodysurfing, TV, but mainly waiting. So he's not ready for the girl who cuts past him on a wave. Not at all prepared for her perfect balance, compelling green eyes, and gold skin. January is about to change.